Dein of Agbor Seeks revival of agric education in schools
In a passionate call for educational reform rooted in cultural revival and sustainability, His Royal Majesty, Dr. Benjamin Ikenchukwu Keagborekuzi I, CON, the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, has charged the government to reintroduce agriculture into primary school education.
The revered Monarch made the call during the courtesy visit of the newly appointed Secretary to the Local Education Authority of Ika South Local Government Area, Comrade Mathew Anyia, to his Palace in Ime-Obi.
Addressing Comrade Anyia and other guests present, the Royal Father emphasized the importance of teaching young pupils the basic principles of agriculture, not only as a skill but also as a vital cultural heritage.
He stated that he was not happy with the gradual disappearance of agricultural knowledge among the younger generation and the resulting disconnection from nature and traditional survival techniques.
“Teach them how to grow plants, fruits, how to nurture life from the soil. We are losing touch with how to treat snake bites, with how to survive using the knowledge passed down through generations. Our culture is not only about dancing and singing; it encompasses how we greet, how we interact, how we heal, and how we feed ourselves”, the Dein said passionately.
He stressed that reviving agricultural education was not merely a nostalgic gesture but also a necessary return to practical knowledge that could empower future generations.
According to the Agbor Monarch, “teachers are uniquely positioned to plant the seeds of agricultural literacy and sustainability in the hearts of young minds, adding, ” there’s no one else to do this important work but the teachers”.
In his response, the Secretary, Ika South Local Education Authority, Comrade Anyia, expressed gratitude to the Monarch and pledged to collaborate closely with stakeholders to ensure that agricultural science and hands-on farm practice become integral components of primary education in the local government area.